What does a surgical tech do?

A surgical technologist, commonly known as a surgical tech, is a vital member of the surgical team, supporting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure that surgical procedures are performed smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Their role is multifaceted and requires a deep understanding of surgical techniques, medical equipment, and sterile practices, along with strong organizational skills, quick adaptability, and a high degree of attention to detail. Their responsibilities extend throughout the entire surgical process, from the initial preparation of the operating room to assisting during the operation and handling post-operative tasks.

Before a procedure begins, the surgical tech takes charge of preparing the operating room by setting up a sterile field, which involves carefully organizing and arranging surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment. They are responsible for selecting and positioning all necessary tools, including scalpels, forceps, retractors, sutures, and any specialized equipment required for specific types of surgeries. Each instrument must be sterile and fully functional, so surgical techs meticulously inspect each tool, making sure they are working correctly and arranged in a way that allows for quick and easy access during the operation. They also set up sterile drapes and coverings, which help prevent contamination and infection, and prepare for any special equipment, such as robotic surgery tools or laser devices.

Once the patient is in the operating room, the surgical tech assists in getting them ready for the procedure. They help position the patient on the operating table in alignment with the surgical team’s requirements, ensuring comfort and accessibility to the surgical site. If necessary, they assist the surgical team with prepping the patient’s skin by cleansing and disinfecting the area where the incision will be made. This preparation is a critical step in maintaining the sterile environment, as any breach in sterility can lead to serious infections.

During the surgery, the surgical tech assumes a central role in supporting the surgeon. They “scrub in,” which means they thoroughly wash and gown themselves in sterile attire to work within the sterile field without contaminating it. Throughout the procedure, they anticipate the surgeon’s needs, providing the correct instruments and materials at precisely the right moment. This anticipation requires a strong understanding of the sequence of surgical steps, a deep knowledge of the instruments, and constant situational awareness. Surgical techs must stay highly focused, often for hours at a time, to ensure that they can provide immediate assistance without hesitation. They pass instruments, sponges, sutures, and other supplies efficiently, minimizing delays and contributing to the smooth flow of the operation.

Another essential responsibility of the surgical tech is counting all instruments, sponges, and other materials before, during, and after the procedure. This count is essential for patient safety, ensuring that nothing is inadvertently left inside the patient’s body. The tech works closely with circulating nurses to double-check these counts, recording and verifying that all items are accounted for at each stage of the operation. Any discrepancy in the count is immediately addressed, often with the use of imaging technology to ensure that no foreign objects remain inside the patient.

Surgical techs are also trained to handle emergencies and unexpected events that may arise during surgery. In cases of sudden complications, they must act swiftly to provide the surgeon with additional instruments, materials, or medications, often without direct instruction. Their ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively to high-stress situations is essential, as they may need to support the surgeon with life-saving measures or prepare for additional procedures that were not initially planned.

Maintaining the sterile field is a continuous responsibility throughout the operation. The surgical tech vigilantly monitors for any potential contamination risks, which could compromise the sterility of the environment and endanger the patient. This requires keen observation, as they must be alert to any breaches, such as accidental touches or unsterile objects entering the sterile area. If contamination occurs, the surgical tech is responsible for alerting the surgical team and taking immediate corrective actions to restore sterility, which might involve re-sterilizing instruments or even setting up new drapes and sterile fields.

Once the procedure is complete, the surgical tech assists with post-operative tasks. They may apply dressings to the patient’s incisions and help prepare the patient for transport to the recovery room. After the patient is moved, the surgical tech manages the cleanup and preparation of the operating room for the next surgery. This includes collecting and discarding disposable items, sanitizing surfaces, and sterilizing all reusable instruments and equipment according to strict medical standards. They ensure that all instruments are cleaned, restocked, and ready for the next procedure, allowing for an efficient transition between surgeries.

Beyond these core duties, surgical techs possess specialized knowledge in areas like human anatomy, medical terminology, and the unique requirements of different surgical procedures, enabling them to adapt to a variety of surgeries, from orthopedic to cardiac, neurosurgery, or general surgery. They understand the complexities and tools associated with each type of procedure, making them versatile and valuable in different surgical settings.

Surgical techs also serve as an essential communication bridge between surgeons, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team, ensuring that everyone is aware of the operation’s progress and any changes in patient condition or surgical needs. They may communicate with the anesthesiologist to confirm timing or provide updates on the procedure’s stage, contributing to a coordinated, team-oriented approach in the operating room.

The work of a surgical tech is demanding, requiring physical stamina and mental resilience, as they often spend long hours standing and focusing intently in high-stakes situations. They must possess a unique blend of technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure, as even minor errors can have serious consequences. Their role is indispensable in ensuring patient safety, supporting the surgical team, and maintaining the efficiency and organization of the operating room environment.

In essence, surgical technologists are the backbone of the operating room. Their behind-the-scenes efforts—from setting up and maintaining a sterile environment to providing critical support during surgery and ensuring everything is ready for the next patient—allow surgeons and other healthcare professionals to perform their work more effectively. Surgical techs contribute significantly to positive surgical outcomes and patient safety, making them an integral part of the healthcare system.